Sunglasses, cold drinks and a racing program are part of the plan for Mr. and Mrs. Robert Doyle of Schenectady on Aug. 2, 1971. The Doyles had track-side seats in the Saratoga Race Course clubhouse on the meet’s opening day.

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Faces at the track -- opening day 1971

On Monday, Aug. 2, 1971 — opening day — 19,413 people were in the clubhouse, box seats, grandstand and at the rail as Saratoga Race Course began its 103rd meet. Weather was cloudy and there was some humidity, but nobody seemed to be complaining. Barbara and Dick Verrutto of Rotterdam and Tony and Agnes Triplo of Glenville were among the stars in the stands. The Bendalls, McNeils, Doyles, Sykeses and Hennesseys — all of Schenectady — dressed for success.